The death toll from a deadly attack on Kawel Community in Mushere District of Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State has risen to 20, according to the Plateau State Police Command.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, June 21, 2026, has once again drawn attention to the persistent security challenges facing parts of Plateau State.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, said armed assailants invaded the community at about 4:40 a.m., unleashing violence on residents and leaving multiple casualties in their wake.
Following reports of the attack, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah, directed the Divisional Police Officer in Bokkos to immediately mobilize officers to the area. Security operatives from the Police Command, including personnel of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), worked alongside other security agencies to confront the attackers.
According to the police, a gun battle ensued, forcing the assailants to retreat from the community.
Authorities confirmed that 18 victims were found dead at the scene, while three others who sustained injuries were taken to hospital for treatment. Two of the injured later succumbed to their wounds, bringing the total number of fatalities to 20.
The police further disclosed that the remains of the deceased have been released to their families for burial after relatives declined requests for autopsies.
Reacting to the tragedy, CP Ewah expressed sympathy to the bereaved families and residents of Bokkos, describing the incident as both tragic and unfortunate. He assured the public that security agencies are working tirelessly to identify, track down and prosecute those responsible for the attack.
As part of measures to restore calm and prevent further violence, the Commissioner ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations and the Area Commander of Pankshin to relocate temporarily to the affected area to coordinate ongoing security operations.
The Command also announced the deployment of additional tactical teams and Police Mobile Force personnel to strengthen security, reassure residents and support an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators.
While urging residents to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities, the Police Command called on members of the public to provide useful information that could aid security agencies in maintaining peace and preventing future attacks across the state.
